Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has directed the immediate conclusion of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between Nigeria and the Kingdom of Belgium, with a view to ensuring that it is signed before the departure of the outgoing Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, Pieter Leenknegt, who paid him a farewell visit in Abuja.
During the courtesy visit, Ambassador Leenknegt, who is expected to conclude his diplomatic assignment in Nigeria on August 5, 2026, expressed appreciation for the cordial relationship between both countries and used the opportunity to revisit discussions on the proposed BASA, which was first raised during a meeting with the Minister earlier this year.
The Ambassador recalled that one of the outstanding issues had been the European Union ownership clause affecting Belgian airlines, noting that Belgium no longer has a national airline with a Belgian majority shareholder.
He explained that the agreement would therefore require appropriate provisions that reflect the realities of the European aviation framework while remaining beneficial to both countries.
He also referred to previous engagements with officials of the Ministry, during which he was informed that the BASA process could be concluded by October.
